20 Outdated Kitchen Trends That Everyone is Ready to See Go
Kitchen design evolves quickly, and sticking to outdated trends can make your space feel tired. Here’s a list of kitchen styles and features that are no longer considered current.
All White Kitchens
Once seen as clean and modern, all-white kitchens now appear sterile and high-maintenance. Switch to warmer whites like ivory or light beige, or add texture with wood and earth-toned cabinets.
Granite Countertops
Granite was overused in the 2000s. It’s being replaced by marble, soapstone, quartzite, and quartz. For more variety, consider mixing materials like wood, terrazzo, or copper.
Traditional-Style Cabinets
Ornate cabinet doors with molding and raised panels feel heavy and outdated. Flat panel and Shaker-style cabinets offer a cleaner, more modern look.
Subway Tile Everywhere
Subway tiles are overdone. Designers are turning to zellige, terrazzo, and handcrafted tiles with natural texture for backsplashes.
Small Windows
Small sink windows are being replaced by larger ones to maximize natural light and visual openness.
Open Shelving
Once trendy, open shelves now feel impractical due to dust and clutter. Opt for closed cabinetry or use small accent shelves sparingly.
Matte Black Hardware
Matte black lacks warmth and can wear poorly. Mixed metals—like brass with polished nickel—offer more visual interest and durability.
Too Much Gray
Monochrome gray kitchens feel cold. If you like gray, choose warm gray shades and mix with earthy tones and warm metals.
Standard Light Fixtures
Generic fixtures don’t enhance design. Use statement or smart lighting to personalize the space and improve functionality.
Ultra-Modern Kitchen Designs
Glossy cabinets, sharp lines, and cool tones are being replaced with warmer, organic materials like natural stone, wood, and soft shapes.
Handle-Free Doors and Cabinets
Push-to-open cabinets are losing popularity due to functionality issues. Designers are embracing visible hardware again for both aesthetics and ease.
Decorative Vent Hoods
Bulky, ornamental hoods dominate the space. Minimal or built-in hoods now blend better with modern design.
Farmhouse Kitchen Styling and Decor
Reclaimed wood, vintage-inspired decor, and graphic signs were all popular farmhouse kitchen decor elements in the early 2000s. This design trend lasted far beyond its expiration date. The current kitchen trend is toward creating authentic and comfortable kitchens.
Highly Decorative Backsplashes
Backsplashes can date a kitchen more quickly than almost any element besides the cabinets, so choosing a decorative backsplash means committing to a very particular style. Although there are still many beautiful kitchens with statement backsplashes, they tend to age faster than more understated options.
Knotty Pine and Orange Oak Cabinets
These wood tones date kitchens instantly. Use neutral or natural tones like white oak, walnut, or ash.
Dropped Ceilings and Fluorescent Lighting
Drop ceilings and old fluorescent tubes make kitchens look dim and outdated. Upgrade to recessed LED lighting with dimmers.
Visible Microwaves
Microwaves above the stove are being replaced with microwave drawers or built-in designs for cleaner aesthetics.
Tile or Laminate Countertops
Visible grout lines and plastic finishes feel dated. Solid surfaces like quartz or natural stone are more contemporary and easier to maintain.
Intentionally Distressed Cabinets
Faux aging and worn finishes no longer feel authentic. Go for smooth, clean finishes in natural hues.
High Barstools and 42” Countertops
High counters reduce visibility and comfort. Standard 36” heights with counter stools are more functional and accessible.